Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W290 Point & Shoot Camera
The Sony DSC-W290 is a 12.1MP 1/2.3 inch compact camera — with SD (480p) video. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W290 Point & Shoot Camera
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Camera Overview — Sony DSC-W290
Key Features — Sony DSC-W290
12.1MP 1/2.3" Sensor: Captures stills at up to 4000x3000 pixels, suitable for everyday prints and sharing.
Optical Image Stabilization: Reduces blur from camera shake during handheld shooting, particularly useful in lower light.
ISO 80–3200 Range: Covers a broad sensitivity range for shooting in both bright outdoor and dimmer indoor conditions.
VGA Video Recording: Records video at up to 640x480 resolution and 30fps for basic motion capture.
3-Inch LCD Display: A 230,400-dot screen serves as the sole framing and image review interface, with no viewfinder present.
Pocketable Plastic Body: At 167g and roughly 97.6 x 57.9 x 21.4 mm, the camera fits easily in a pocket or small bag.
Camera Specifications — Sony DSC-W290
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Travel, Beginner-Friendly |
| Type | Point and Shoot |
| Sensor | 1/2.3 inch |
| Resolution | 12.1MP |
| ISO Range | 80 – 3200 |
| AF System | Contrast Detection |
| AF Points | Multi-point |
| Max Photo Resolution | 4000x3000 |
| Burst Rate | 1.5 fps |
| Max Video Resolution | SD (480p) |
| Max Frame Rate | 30fps |
| Video Color Profiles | Standard |
Description — Sony DSC-W290
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W290 is a compact point-and-shoot camera centered on a 12.1-megapixel, 1/2.3-inch sensor with a maximum still image resolution of 4000x3000 pixels. The camera's ISO 80–3200 range provides flexibility when shooting in varying light. Optical image stabilization (OIS) is built in, with digital IS also available, helping to keep images sharp during handheld use. Video recording tops out at 720p at 30fps, suitable for casual clips.
Stills can be captured in Standard, Vivid, or Black & White color profiles, allowing basic creative choices in-camera. Autofocus uses a contrast detection system with multi-point coverage. The 3-inch LCD with 230,400 dots serves as the sole framing and playback display.
Storage relies on Memory Stick Duo and Memory Stick PRO Duo formats, and connectivity is handled by USB. The NP-BG1 Lithium-Ion battery is rated for up to 150 shots. At 167g and 97.6 x 57.9 x 21.4 mm, this plastic-bodied camera is built for portability, though it carries no weather sealing.
Pros — Sony DSC-W290
- ✓12.1MP resolution with a maximum output of 4000x3000 pixels suits everyday and travel photography
- ✓Optical image stabilization (OIS) helps reduce camera shake in handheld shooting
- ✓ISO range of 80–3200 provides usable sensitivity across varied lighting conditions
Cons — Sony DSC-W290
- ✗Battery rated for only up to 150 shots per charge, limiting use on longer outings
- ✗No viewfinder — the LCD is the sole framing option
- ✗No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, requiring a physical USB connection for file transfer
Reviews — Sony DSC-W290
Videos — Sony DSC-W290
Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-w290 Review! — gadgetgal38
Frequently Asked Questions — Sony DSC-W290
What memory cards does the Sony DSC-W290 accept?+
The DSC-W290 is compatible with Memory Stick Duo and Memory Stick PRO Duo storage formats. Standard SD or microSD cards are not supported, so you will need to source compatible Sony Memory Stick media.
Does the DSC-W290 have image stabilization?+
Yes. The camera includes optical image stabilization (OIS) as well as digital IS. These work to reduce the effect of camera shake during handheld shooting.
What video quality can the DSC-W290 record?+
The camera records video at a maximum resolution of 720p at 30fps. Only a Standard color profile is available for video capture.
How does the DSC-W290 connect to a computer?+
The camera connects via USB. There is no Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, so wired USB transfer is the primary method for moving files to a computer.
What is the battery life on the DSC-W290?+
The NP-BG1 Lithium-Ion battery is rated for up to 150 shots per charge. Carrying a spare battery is advisable for extended shooting sessions.
Does the DSC-W290 have a viewfinder?+
No. The only way to frame shots is through the 3-inch LCD display with 230,400 dots of resolution. There is no optical or electronic viewfinder.